Visual differences from the previously spotted standard model include larger wheels to house uprated brakes, a larger air intake on the lower front bumper and a redesigned grille pattern echoing that of other AMG models.

The design of the rear bumper has also been revised to allow for the addition of a dual-exit exhaust system, while the car's lower stance hints at a sportier suspension set-up.

Using the same 2.0-litre mild hybrid petrol engine found in the new A35 hot hatch, the GLB 35 will produce around 302bhp. It will be joined by a range-topping AMG 45 variant after launch.

Due to arrive in showrooms next year, the GLB mixes old-school G-Class influences, including a boxy profile and an upright rear end, with contemporary details such as the brand's softer front-end design and LED headlights.

The GLB, a sibling to the GLA, has been given this less conventional appearance in an attempt to stand out against softer-looking rivals, including the X1 and Audi Q3.

Recent trademark filings suggest that variants badged 200, 220 and 250 will be available, with engines shared with smaller Mercedes offerings such as the A-Class and CLA.

The engine line-up will feature an updated range of Mercedes and Renault/Nissan-sourced four-cylinder petrol and diesel units, producing upwards of 160bhp. Also planned is a plug-in petrol-electric hybrid variant with a modest pure-electric range.

Development of the long-mooted GLB has been accelerated in order to bring the car to market in 2019.

The move is part of Mercedes’ plan to retain sales momentum in the lucrative premium compact car class.

The GLB is part of a future eight-strong family of compact models announced by Mercedes chairman Dieter Zetsche at the 2018 Detroit motor show. The new high-riding model will slot into the range above the GLA and below the GLC. Its likely starting price will be around £32,000 when it goes on sale in 2019.

One of three additions to Mercedes' existing compact car range of five, the GLB joins a new four-door A-Class Saloon, along with an as-yet-unknown model; one possibility is a dedicated coupé in the mould of the Audi TT. The new line-up has kicked off with the launch of the fourth-generation A-Class.

The GLB is known under the internal codename X247 and is said to draw heavily on the well-received Ener-G-Force concept seen at the 2015 Los Angeles motor show.

It combines styling cues inspired by the tough military vehicle design of the 38-year-old G-Class with more contemporary flourishes from the 2014 G-Code concept, although latest shots of the development model suggest a lower, boxy appearance of the GLK, the GLC predecessor that was never sold in the UK.

Buyers will be able to choose between a series of optional styling packages, including a rugged-looking off-road appearance, with extra cladding and increased ride height, according to insiders privy to the final design.

Chosen by Mercedes board members over an alternative long-wheelbase B-Class, the standard GLB earmarked for sale in the UK is set to be around 4600mm in length, making it 180mm longer than the recently facelifted GLA.

The GLB is based on a version of Mercedes’ MFA platform that will be reworked to have greater production flexibility and lower weight than today’s structure. It will be offered with a choice of two wheelbases, with either a five-seat or seven-seat layout, in a move mirroring that of the Q3, X1 and Volkswagen Tiguan.

Details remain scarce, but sources suggest the long-wheelbase variant, which extends to almost 4800mm, may be sold only in selected markets, such as China and the US.

Inside, the GLB is expected to share its dashboard and appointments, including a new Comand 6.0in touchscreen infotainment system, with other new compact Mercedes models, including the fourth-gen A-Class, third-gen B-Class and second-gen CLA and CLA Shooting Brake, as well as the new A-Class Saloon.

It's both funny and painful seeing these crudely created fictional car designs that lack any design merit and disregards the car company's current design principles.
This is Frankenstein of a SUV is akin to a G-wagon worn down like a bar of soap, with lights from various Merc models, swoopy side character lines that Mercedes are now avoiding, in a goofy cartoon proportioned and slightly retro details that Chrysler and Jeep would typically do.
This could be a post-modern London black cab.